Katie Gustas Smeal Senior Thesis

Author:

Gustas, Katie

Area of Honors:

Supply Chain and Information Systems

Degree:

Bachelor of Science

Document Type:

Thesis

Thesis Supervisors:

Robert Alexander Novack, Thesis Supervisor
John C Spychalski, Thesis Honors Advisor

Keywords:

Drone
Sub-Saharan Africa
Blood Transportation

Abstract:

Sub-Saharan Africa is struggling to provide access of life-saving medical resources to its citizens, creating widespread health concerns. The region has seen a high maternal mortality rate, correlating to the lack of medical accessibility. Specifically, there is a lack of adequate blood supply for mothers suffering from post-partum hemorrhaging. By conducting internet research provided by company executives and area experts, as well as public data sources, opportunities in drone transportation of blood are being explored. Industry leader in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Zipline, is evaluated for its successful implementation in the country of Rwanda. Throughout this thesis the reasons for the company’s success are identified and areas for potential improvement are explored. A centralized supply chain, lack of adequate transportation routes and limiting physical conditions, a localized workforce, supporting government regulations, and efficient technology all were found to contribute to Zipline’s success in saving lives through drone transportation in Rwanda. The lessons learned from Zipline in Rwanda are applicable across sub-Saharan Africa and help to conceptualize the positive impact drone usage can create in various regions of the continent through the same or similar processes. The recommended strategies provide a sustainable business opportunity, and also serve as guidelines to acting on a humanitarian issue in a socially responsible manner.